New Zealand is renowned for its stunning landscapes, but few know about its delectable desserts. Let’s uncover three of the country’s finest sweet treats, complete with detailed recipes.
1. Pavlova: A Kiwi Classic
Pavlova, a meringue-based dessert named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, is a staple in New Zealand.
Ingredients:
- 4 egg whites
- 1 cup of caster sugar
- 1 teaspoon of white vinegar
- 1/2 tablespoon of cornflour
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Whipped cream and fresh fruits for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking tray with baking paper.
- Beat egg whites until stiff. Add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the mix becomes glossy.
- Add vinegar, cornflour, and vanilla extract. Fold gently.
- Spoon the mixture onto the baking tray, creating a well in the center.
- Reduce the oven to 120°C (250°F). Bake for 1 hour.
- Let it cool in the oven. Top with whipped cream and fresh fruits before serving.
2. Hokey Pokey Ice Cream: A Crunchy Delight
Hokey Pokey Ice Cream, with its honeycomb toffee bits, is a true Kiwi favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of cream
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 3/4 cup of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Hokey Pokey honeycomb toffee
Instructions:
- Mix cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
- Cool the mixture. Churn in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Mix in honeycomb toffee pieces. Freeze until firm.
3. Anzac Biscuits: A Chewy Treat
Originally made for soldiers abroad, these oats-based biscuits have become a household dessert in New Zealand.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of rolled oats
- 1 cup of flour
- 1 cup of sugar
- 3/4 cup of desiccated coconut
- 1/2 cup of butter
- 2 tablespoons of golden syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 2 tablespoons of boiling water
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with baking paper.
- Mix oats, flour, sugar, and coconut in a bowl.
- Melt butter and golden syrup in a saucepan. Mix baking soda and boiling water, then add to the butter mixture.
- Combine both mixtures. Drop spoonfuls onto the baking tray.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes. Let cool.
4. Lolly Cake: A Childhood Favorite
Lolly Cake is a popular treat in New Zealand, particularly loved by children. Its key ingredient is “Fruit Puffs” (or Eskimos) – colourful, fruity marshmallow sweets.
Ingredients:
- 120g butter
- 200g condensed milk
- 1 packet of malt biscuits
- 180g of Fruit Puffs or Eskimos
- Desiccated coconut for coating
Instructions:
- Crush the malt biscuits into small crumbs.
- Cut the Fruit Puffs into pieces.
- Melt the butter and mix with condensed milk.
- Combine butter mixture, biscuit crumbs, and Fruit Puffs.
- Form into a log shape and roll in desiccated coconut.
- Refrigerate overnight and slice before serving.
5. Lamingtons: A Spongey Delight
Lamingtons are square-shaped sponge cakes coated in chocolate sauce and desiccated coconut, occasionally filled with cream or jam. While they are also found in Australia, Kiwis have a particular love for these treats.
Ingredients:
- 125g butter
- 150g caster sugar
- 2 eggs
- 250g self-raising flour
- 120ml milk
- 2 cups icing sugar
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons boiling water
- 2 cups desiccated coconut
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a square cake tin.
- Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs.
- Fold in the flour and milk, then spoon the mixture into the cake tin.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then leave to cool. Cut into squares.
- To make the icing, mix icing sugar and cocoa powder, then stir in the boiling water.
- Dip each square into the icing, then roll in desiccated coconut. Let set on a rack.
New Zealand’s dessert scene is a blend of traditional tastes and creative twists. From the iconic pavlova to the playful lolly cake, Kiwi sweet treats offer something for everyone. So, grab your apron, it’s time to bring a slice of New Zealand into your kitchen!
